Sunscreen is the non-negotiable; the one product that protects your skin from premature ageing, uneven tone, pigmentation and scary UV damage. But finding a sunscreen that doesn’t leave you grey, greasy, ghostly or smelling like a beach cooler, can feel like driving in JHB traffic: frustrating, overwhelming and occasionally feeling dusty.
So we did the hard work for you. Here’s your clever, no-BS guide to the best sunscreens right now, backed with insights from an expert who actually knows what she’s talking about.
Meet the expert: Amy Knoetze, a medical aesthetics therapist & owner of Pulse Dermatology & Laser.
Why Sunscreens Matter More Than You Think
Here’s the plot twist: you’re probably not applying enough sunscreen. Yes, you. Me. All of us. Knoetze explains why SPF numbers can be misleading – and why high SPF matters. “Sunscreens with an SPF higher than 30, like SPF 50+, provide only a marginally higher percentage of UVB protection – around 98% compared to SPF 30’s 97%. However, higher SPF offers a larger margin of error, which is beneficial because most people apply less than the recommended amount of sunscreen.” Not good.
If you plan to spend significant time outdoors, choose a broad-spectrum product with reliable UVA protection and an SPF of 50 or higher,” says Knoetze. And here’s the kicker: “What many may not know is that SPF is tested using a thick, even layer that you can usually see on the skin, and most patients apply much less than that,” explains Knoetze. Translation: Even if you swear you’re using SPF 30, your “three-dot technique” might be functioning closer to SPF 10. Yikes.
How To Interpret Sunscreen Labels?
Finding it hard to understand what your label says? Here’s how to decode SPF labels so they actually mean something the next time you’re staring at a sunscreen aisle, wondering why there are so many terms.
Chemical
These sunscreens sink into the skin and convert UV light to harmless heat. (Pretty cool, right?)
SPF
Stands for “sun protection factor,” which (basically) indicates how much longer you’re shielded from UVB rays than without sunscreen.
Broad-Spectrum
The product protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Mineral
Ingredients like zinc oxide act as a physical barrier, reflecting UV rays before they can penetrate the dermis.
Water-Resistant
This means the sunscreen will protect you (usually for either 40 or 80 minutes) while you’re in the water.
READ MORE: 9 Mineral Sunscreens That Won’t Damage Your Skin – Or The Environment
So… Which Sunscreen Should You Choose?
Simple:
- If you’re unsure? Just get the SPF 50
- If you’re outdoors? SPF 50+.
- If you’re mostly indoors? SPF 30 (but applied properly).
Best Sunscreens Right Now
After-Sun Care
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 SPF50+
A soothing, repairing balm specially formulated for dry skin irritation. This non-oily balm helps to nourish and comfort dry skin, as well as visibly irritated areas.
For Skin Tone
Swiitchbeauty Winter #SilkStick Dewy SPF50 Stick
We’re still loving the winter edition of this stick for its transparent, natural finish. Works just as well on its own as it does under make-up.
For Workouts
ISDIN Fusion Gel Sport SPF50+
Sweat-proof, invisible, non-sticky and formulated for intense movement, this gel SPF keeps up when you’re going full tilt.
READ MORE: What Exactly Is Oxidative Stress In Skin – And What Really Helps?
For Blue Light
Skin Functional Mineral Sunscreen SPF50
UVA, UVB and blue light protection with no white cast. It’s clinically proven to enhance skin moisture by over 90% in 24hrs.
For Dryness
CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
Contains ceramides and niacinamide – great for those who don’t like multi-step routines.
For Zero Light
Nivea Sun SPF 50 Shine Control Cream
A dream for helping to mattify oily skin while keeping your outer layer hydrated.
For The Water
Ocean Freedom Active Mineral SPF 50+
Made with swimmers in mind, this water-resistant tube means less reapplying after a dip.
READ MORE: Top 16 Bronzers And Highlighters For That Sunkissed Glow
For Redness
Heliocare 360° Color Gel Oil-Free SPF 50
Don’t be afraid of tint – this gel is sheer, neutral and provides uniform coverage for an even complexion, perfect for calming post-gym flush.
For Sensitive Skin
Oh-Lief Natural Body Sunscreen SPF 30
Certified organic, non-nano zinc, reef-friendly UVA/UVB protection with a gentle, water-resistant formula that’s ideal for sensitive skin.
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